Hello, I'm not sure if I can get an automatic car at the Hertz car rental in Orvieto. Is the drive from Florence airport to Orvieto difficult? My sister and I would be traveling together and I have not driven in Italy before. I drive a lot in the states; but I'm nervous about driving out of the busy airport to Orvieto. We were only planning on driving around the countryside but might have to reconsider getting the car in Florence. (I definitely want an automatic).. Thank you in advance for your help.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16575 posts
Florence to Orvieto is 99.9% on a 4 to 6 lane freeway (except for the last mile from the freeway exit to your accommodations.
I'm sure you know how to drive on a freeway.
Just be aware that on European freeways, unlike in the US, you absolutely cannot cruise in the left lane. That is for passing only. You must move to the right lanes as soon as you are done passing and leave the left lane clear for faster vehicles.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
The airport in Florence is quite easy to navigate... it is not that big and you can just follow the signs to the freeway. Just bring your own GPS from home (makes it easier) loaded with maps from Italy. Also, a decent map. Better chance of getting the automatic at the airport.
Posted by
OP
10 posts
Thanks for the info and help. This might be easier for us to guarantee an automatic.
Posted by
Portland, Oregon, United States
907 posts
You will actually enjoy driving in Italy. It is fun, on and off the autostrade.
I have rented at downtown Florence and never again. I always go to the airport. You have very easy access to the autostrada, A1 after a few other turns, but nothing horrible like downtown.
Driving is the best way to see Italy in my opinion. You go places no one sees from a train.
Posted by
Honolulu, HI
180 posts
I did the opposite renting in Rome, stopping in Orvieto and returning in Florence. Drive is no problem and parking in Orvieto is easy.
I rented at the train station in Rome. Avoiding the ZTL's was a bit of a challenge in Rome. I also returned in downtown Florence. I DO NOT recommend that.
Joe
Posted by
Seattel, Washington, USA
134 posts
They drive VERY fast in Italy. Just keep that in mind. Have driven many times in Italy and survive. Just keep in mind that the Italians have no concept of death when they drive. Enjoy!
Posted by
Granite Bay, CA
1994 posts
I hear you John!! I love Italy and did fine driving in Tuscany, but in other areas...yep, no concept of death! We loved our trip, but once we drove into Switzerland I breathed a sigh of relief.